Lepidolite (Polylithionite) replacing Elbaite
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The ArkenstoneFeatured
A thick layer of Lepidolite has replaced the outer portion of this stout Elbaite Tourmaline crystal from Brazil. This is likely from Governador Valadares region, although such replacements formed in a variety of mines there. Much of the exterior is a sparkly greenish color from the 2 mm Lepidolite crystals that have aggregated to create this nearly complete pseudomorph around a tourmaline core remnant, although there are a few areas on the exterior that retain striated, pinkish sections of Tourmaline. This crystal is caught in the process of becoming a Lepidolite pseudomorph after Elbaite Tourmaline, probably in the intermediate stage of replacement. A nice example of this (partial) replacement! Featured in the book Collecting Pseudomorphs: The Changelings of Mineralogy (Mineralogical Record, January 2025) on p. 67, fig. 12. Part of an educational set, with these additional items: Lepidolite (SYP25-05a) and Elbaite Tourmaline with Lepidolite (SYP25-05c).
Product details
SpeciesLepidolite, Elbaite, Polylithionite
SizeSmall Cabinet
Dimensions5.6 x 2.6 x 2.6 cm
Listed on05/25/2025
LocalityBrazil, Minas Gerais
SKUSYP25-05b
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Mineral guide
Learn about Lepidolite
lilac-purple mica from granitic pegmatites, forming rosettes and ball clusters with silky luster; prized for color, form, and collecting appeal.Regional guide
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